I’ve penned more than 3,000 columns over the last 30-plus years, but this one has proven to be the most difficult. That’s because it’s the last one and there’s simply way too much ground to cover in just 350 words.
Tomorrow will be my last day as editor of the Optimist as I’ve decided it’s time to move on to a new adventure while I’m still young enough to do so. Before I go, however, I want to say that it’s been a privilege to sit in this chair for all those years and to have been part of a tightknit Optimist family for such a long time.
Looking back on it, I feel extremely fortunate to have made my way to South Delta way back in the 1980s because not only did I find a job I enjoy going to every morning, but even more than that I found the love of my life, who also happens to double as our sports editor’s sister. I’ve been blessed to work with some great people over the years and I’ve also been lucky to have been part of that ever-so-small slice of the workforce that commutes on foot (with my faithful dog Lacey leading the way to the office in recent years).
My time at the Optimist wouldn’t have been as enjoyable, however, if it weren’t for the good folks of South Delta, who take caring about their community to a whole new level. The fact people are as engaged as they are could be considered an annoyance for, say, a developer or those over at city hall, but it’s a godsend when you’re publishing a community newspaper. Whether it’s been a never-ending supply of letters to the editor, feedback that has run the gamut or financial support through this pandemic, loyal Optimist readers have always been there and I will forever be indebted for that.
I know it’s the right time to bid farewell, but I do so with a heavy heart. Thank you for putting up with me all these years and please keep up the good fight.
